Session Number

Advisor(s)

Location

A-131

Start Date

28-4-2016 9:50 AM

End Date

28-4-2016 10:15 AM

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

The W-Curve Theory of Adjustment describes a student's varied emotional stages upon entering a residential academic setting for the first time. While the W-Curve Theory is founded upon research studies surrounding adults in new environments, it has never been proven to be accurate to high school students. We are setting out to determine whether the W-Curve is an accurate description of the transition into IMSA, using Plutchik's Wheel of primary emotions for reference. The data collection portion of this SIR will take place during the 2016- 2017 school year with the IMSA class of 2019, who will be surveyed on a regular basis and plotted on graphs expressing their emotional states over time. Should the W-Curve prove to be statistically accurate, this investigation will serve as a reference for its accuracy in the future; in the case that the Curve proves to be inaccurate, the data obtained will also be used in an attempt to find a more accurate pattern to describe student adjustment. A better understanding of how sophomores adjust to the IMSA environment will help parents, staff, and students themselves navigate through the adjustment process, and how we can all work to make the transition as smooth as possible.

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Apr 28th, 9:50 AMApr 28th, 10:15 AM

How Students Adjust: Analyzing the Accuracy of the W-Curve Theory to IMSA Sophomores

A-131

The W-Curve Theory of Adjustment describes a student's varied emotional stages upon entering a residential academic setting for the first time. While the W-Curve Theory is founded upon research studies surrounding adults in new environments, it has never been proven to be accurate to high school students. We are setting out to determine whether the W-Curve is an accurate description of the transition into IMSA, using Plutchik's Wheel of primary emotions for reference. The data collection portion of this SIR will take place during the 2016- 2017 school year with the IMSA class of 2019, who will be surveyed on a regular basis and plotted on graphs expressing their emotional states over time. Should the W-Curve prove to be statistically accurate, this investigation will serve as a reference for its accuracy in the future; in the case that the Curve proves to be inaccurate, the data obtained will also be used in an attempt to find a more accurate pattern to describe student adjustment. A better understanding of how sophomores adjust to the IMSA environment will help parents, staff, and students themselves navigate through the adjustment process, and how we can all work to make the transition as smooth as possible.